Get by Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈɡɛt/, /ˈɡɪt/ /ˈbaɪ

GET-by or GIT-by

UK

ɡˈɛt/ /bˈaɪ

get-BY

Definition

To manage to live or do something with the limited money, resources, or skill you have.

Usage & Nuances

Informal and common in conversation. Often used with 'on' (get by on $10 a day) or to discuss language ability (get by in French). Implies managing but not thriving.

• Spanish: arreglárselas - sobrevivir (con poco)
• Portuguese (BR): se virar - dar conta - sobreviver (com pouco)
• Portuguese (PT): safar-se - desenrascar-se - sobreviver (com pouco)
• Chinese (Simplified): 勉强应付 - 勉强维持
• Chinese (Traditional): 勉強應付 - 勉強維持
• Hindi: काम चला लेना - गुज़ारा करना
• Arabic: يكتفي بما لديه - يتدبر الأمر
• Bengali: কাটিয়ে ওঠা - চলা
• Russian: справляться - перебиваться
• Japanese: 何とかやっていく - しのぐ
• Vietnamese: xoay sở
• Korean: 견디다 - 그럭저럭 살아가다
• Turkish: geçinmek - idare etmek
• Urdu: گزارا کرنا - بس چلانا
• Indonesian: bertahan - cukup untuk hidup

Example Sentences

It's hard to get by on so little money.

basic

I can get by with my basic English.

basic

Many families get by with just one income.

basic

Sometimes you just have to get by until things get better.

natural

My French isn’t great, but I can get by when I travel.

natural

If we cut back on eating out, we should be able to get by this month.

natural